Themes

Description

This project sought to establish whether there are systematic differences in light inhibition among species, and how phosphorus limitations and diurnal variations in temperature impact on leaf respiration.

Leaf respiration plays a vital role in regulating the Earth’s climate and ecosystem functioning. Although we know that leaf respiration is inhibited by light (by up to 80%), we are currently unable to predict variations in light inhibition. In this ARC funded project (2009-2012), we combined laboratory and field observations to establish whether there are systematic differences in light inhibition among species, and how phosphorus limitations and diurnal variations in temperature impact on leaf respiration. Field work was being conducted in a wide range of contrasting forest environments around the world (Australia, New Zealand, North America, Europe and South America).

A crucial goal of the project was development of new modelling frameworks that will facilitate incorporation of climate- and nutrient-dependent variations in day- and night-time leaf respiration into global- and ecosystem-level models. While we have some way to go before we fully realize this goal, the project has to date yielded several publications (see below), with further manuscripts in preparation.

Student projects that take build on the outcome of the project are welcome - if you have an interest in this area, contact Owen Atkin.